I have done Galena blog in Thai already , I would love to make one for English friends to experience this little charming town in Illinois. Jorge and I live in Chicago, IL and we love to travel and explore new places. Galena is one of the list for our road trip. We drove from Chicago to Galena for 3 hours and we had a great time.
In the mid -1800 Galena become a mining, smelting and steam boating center and one of the busiest ports on Mississippi river. During the civil war, nine Union Army generals hailed from Galena including Ulysses S. Grant, later the US 18th president. But the arrival of the Illinois Central Railroad in 1854 began the city's decline and it become a quiet backwater town. Now this Charming city on the Galena river delights visitor with its 19th century history and architecture, walking tour ,trolley ride, ghost walks, electric shops, great food, local wine, hiking biking trail ,a public golf course. Let's check our picture out
It was cold
The town is empty
Walking to the Dowling House, the oldest house in Galena. -1826
Galena is well know of local wine and history
Me
The local shop owner said Spring is busy here. Winter is too cold and stores hours are short. Unfortunately most of the stores were closed when we were walking around.
I noticed that this small town has so many church. This one is First Presbyterian church -1838
We walked passed by historic Dowling house. The Dowling House is the oldest building in Galena, Illinois, United States, now a historic house museum.
We saw hot apple cider and cinnamon donut but unfortunately they are not available. Only all kind of delicious dipping sauce they are available instead.
So quiet today
I kinda wanted to do Ghost tour
smile
Picture of United Methodist church -1857
In front of President Grant's house
President Grant home- 1860 build by Alexander Jackson. Given to US. Grant and family 1865
First lady Julia statute (2006) in front of the house ( first lady's park) Today open as a museum.
The way from parking lot to the museum
Galena history
Just one
Jorge too
I wish to come back for summer. Winter view is glorious
Around U.S Grant house
We should have not done this
We found Mean Bean Roasters Inc on Main st. They got all flavors you like to add in your coffee. The coffee bean are fresh and smell so good. I got my hot Mocha and I got to love my cup.
Good stop for a coffee in the old day
Love this charming town
Also we stop by Belvedere Mansion
Built in 1857, this Italianate mansion features an elegant interior & landscaped gardens.
Also night time is a must to visit
Our place to stay is Best Western Designer Inn and Suites which is really close to the town less than 2 minutes drive to U.S Grant home
Our Bed room is really roomy and comfy. Our room has balcony, Sofa bed and room for 10 more people.
Our breakfast was good. Love the waffle there (free breakfast)
Dinning area
Love the pool
We got a good deal on booking.com. The deal was cheap and for the place to stay and service is reasonable. I don't see a bad thing with Best Western Designer Inn and Suites
Galena is beautiful. Over all we had a good time. Promise to come back in summer.
